Morris County 4-H Clogging Club welcomes new members

Clogging, an energetic style of dance, has wowed fair goers for many years at the annual Morris County 4-H Fair. This year, youth in grades fourth through one year out of high school are invited to join the new Morris County 4-H clogging club. The first meeting will be held on June 1, at the Crossroads Community Church in Flanders. Club members will meet on the first and third Fridays of each month from 7-9 p.m. There are no fees join a 4-H club.

The roots of clogging date back to the 18th century in the Appalachian Mountains. This distinctively American dance was developed from a rich blend of European and native folk dances. The fast footwork and distinctive shoe taps make clogging an eye catching show stopper. Robin McWilliams, the new 4-H clogging club’s leader, became interested in clogging after watching her daughter practice her routines. “I could see she was enjoying the dances so I decided to give it a try. Not only is it great exercise, but I love being able to express myself in such a unique way.”

Kelly Allison, 4-H Program Associate, was first introduced to clogging at the Morris County 4-H Fair two years ago. “I was stunned by the performance of the youth dancers. It was obvious that they were enjoying every minute of the dances. Now that 4-H has welcomed the new clogging club, I’m looking forward to seeing more youth on the stage dancing.”

Rachel Lyons, 4-H Agent, recommends the new 4-H clogging club for youth who are interested in getting active, developing a new talent, and discovering new friendships. All skill levels are welcome to join in the fun. Basic dance steps and an introduction to clogging will be provided.

Nearly five million boys and girls are in 4-H nationwide. Locally, 4-H serves over 1,000 youth, in Morris County. Children from all backgrounds and interests are involved in 4-H. Projects and activities are as diverse as rocketry, model airplanes, and go-karts; to animals, outdoor education, science, foods and clothing. 4-H youth are assisted by more than 200 adults serving as volunteers in Morris County.

The 4-H Youth Development Program is part of Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Morris County, an educational outreach program of Rutgers University in partnership with federal and county governments and private sector support. Cooperative Extension programs are offered without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability or handicap.

For more information about the 4-H Clogging Club, or the 4-H program in general, visit the Morris County 4-H website at morris.njaes.rutgers.edu/4h or contact the county 4-H Office at 973-285-8300, ext. 3. All kids, grades 1-13 (one year out of high school), are always welcome to join 4-H. In addition, the 4-H staff is ready to provide orientation and training for any adults interested in serving as 4-H volunteers.